(by Vanessa Emerson, FDSI)

Lately, I’ve found myself struggling with the idea of “allowing.” As someone who deeply values spiritual alignment and inner peace, I recognize the importance of this concept, yet it has felt especially challenging given the instability and chaos brought about by the new presidential administration and their actions. I’ve allowed the turbulence of the external world to affect me, leaving me feeling emotionally, mentally, and spiritually off-center.

The Law of Allowing, as found in various spiritual and philosophical traditions, is the principle of permitting life to unfold without resistance. It’s the practice of accepting what is, without pushing against it, judging it, or attempting to control it. This does not mean complacency or passivity, but rather an intentional shift in perspective—choosing to embrace the present moment as it is rather than resisting it. The paradox is that in releasing resistance, we open ourselves to alignment, peace, and clarity. Allowing creates a less stressful, more productive day because it frees up mental and emotional energy that would otherwise be spent in resistance.

The Law of Attraction states that we attract what we focus upon. When we give our energy to what we don’t want—whether it’s political instability, frustration, or negativity—we inadvertently attract more of the same. This principle isn’t just a spiritual belief; scientific research backs it up. Studies in neuroscience and psychology show that our thoughts and emotions influence our brain’s neural pathways, reinforcing patterns that shape our reality. For example, research on neuroplasticity suggests that the more we focus on stress, the stronger the neural circuits for stress become, making it easier to fall into the same emotional patterns in the future. Conversely, focusing on peace, gratitude, and acceptance rewires our brain to recognize and create more positive experiences.

A key practice in allowing is meditation. Meditation trains the mind to detach from resistance and move into a state of flow. Through mindfulness, we learn to observe our thoughts without attaching to them, reducing stress and improving cognitive function. Science supports meditation’s ability to decrease cortisol (the stress hormone), enhance focus, and promote emotional resilience. Regular meditation aligns us with the Law of Allowing by teaching us to release resistance and stay present.

Each morning as I begin my meditation practice, I repeat the Reiki principles, focusing on and feeling each one deeply. This practice helps me maintain alignment throughout the day.   Reiki principle #2, “Just for today, I will not worry,” serves as a powerful reminder to release resistance and trust in the unfolding of life.  Reiki principle #1, “Just for today, I will not be angry” has been a reminder to choose joy, kindness, and love when it would be easy to live in anger, fear and hate.   Reiki principle #3, “Just for today, I will be grateful” is the powerful reminder that there is so much going ‘right’ in my world and I can choose to focus there.

The more I cultivate allowing within myself, the more I create a ripple effect of peace, presence, and alignment in the world around me. In choosing trust over resistance, I not only transform my own experience but also contribute to a more harmonious collective energy. While the world around us may feel chaotic, our ability to cultivate inner peace becomes an anchor—one that not only steadies us but also influences the energy we bring to the greater collective. In a time of division and unrest, perhaps the greatest act of change is not resistance, but the unwavering choice to remain grounded in peace.

Originally featured on Substack

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